Introduction to Journalism Concepts

Study Notes

Journalism is the production and distribution of reports and news about current events.
It applies to citizen journalists who use methods of information gathering and literary techniques.
Journalists use various media like print, television, radio, internet, and historically, newsreels.

Journalism is an activity that includes gathering, assessing, creating, and presenting news and information.
This activity also produces journalistic content itself.
Journalism stands apart from other activities and content through its characteristics and practices.
Key elements set journalism apart from other forms of communication and make it essential for democratic societies.
A more democratic society tends to have more news and information.

Journalism's core is gathering, verifying, and disseminating information to the public.
It keeps people informed and holds powerful individuals/institutions accountable, stimulating dialogue about important issues.
Journalism is a form of communication structured around questions: Who? What? How? Where? When? Why?
This form of communication is used to gather, select, process news and current affairs for different mediums, ie. press, radio, TV, film, etc.
Journalism is a discipline of collecting, analyzing, verifying and presenting news about current events, trends, issues and people.
Considered "paid writing for public media" to present actual and ongoing events of public relevance.

Journalism as a profession can be specialized in areas like editorial, design and printing.
It requires tasks like following deadlines, workplace routines, and labor divisions.
Earlier times relied on typewriting and shorthand.
Modern times demand computing and DTP skills.

Journalism is different from other professions, like medicine, law, or teaching.
It does not require specific qualifications or training to start.
Entry into the profession is open to anyone, regardless of education level or experience.
It’s been an open profession since its early days.
Journalism doesn't have a special body of knowledge; its relationship with its clients (readers, advertisers, advertising agencies, public relations personnel) isn't defined by any specific knowledge base.

Journalism is a business and trade focused on profit-making.
Publishing happens regularly with news as the primary product.
Attracting advertisers and readers through marketing strategies is vital for circulation and readership.

News covers current events, trends, and happenings that affect individuals and communities.
Features are in-depth explorations of topics with human interest angles.
Commentary analyzes news events and issues, offering perspectives and opinions.
Investigations uncover truths and expose wrongdoing through focused research and reporting.

Reporters research, interview sources, write, and broadcast news stories.
Editors verify information, fact-check, and oversee the quality of published work.
Photojournalists tell stories with photographs.
Broadcast journalists present news on radio and television.
Data journalists use data analysis and visualization to inform stories.

Journalism's vital role is informing citizens, fostering public discourse, and promoting democracy.
The digital age has transformed journalism; it's accessible and innovative.
Challenges like misinformation, media consolidation, and economic pressures exist.

Accuracy: presenting factual, verified information is crucial in journalism
Objectivity: striving to report news without bias or personal opinion, presenting various viewpoints on issues.
Timeliness: reporting information immediately on current events is key
Public Interest: covering issues relevant and important to society.
Accountability: holding powerful figures responsible through investigative reporting.
Ethics: adhering to professional and ethical standards in gathering and reporting information.
Independence: Maintaining editorial autonomy from outside influences, such as advertisers and political entities.
Transparency: Being open about reporting sources and methods.
Fairness: providing balanced story coverage and including various stakeholder voices.
Clarity: presenting information concisely and understood by the target audience.
These characteristics allow journalism to serve as a pillar of democracy, by educating the public and fostering informed decisions.